Removing the Glue From Floors After a Tile Removal

by Sarabeth Asaff

When tile is removed, it is frequently a two-part process. First, the tile itself is taken up -- either cut, pried or chiseled from the floor. Then, the adhesive that was holding it in place must be removed. Depending on the type of tile and the type of adhesive beneath it, different methods may be used to remove it. You need to remove the adhesive before you can proceed with installing new flooring.

Removing Tile Mastic

Mastic is an organic compound that is used to adhere wall tiles that are used in dry areas. It may also be used on counters and in some older floors. Mastic is not water-resistant and it will dissolve and disintegrate when in contact with water. To remove excess mastic after the tiles have been removed, soak several cloths in water and lay them over the mastic. Let the water soak into the mastic until it becomes soft. Then, scrape off the remaining adhesive with a putty knife.

Removing Thin Set Mortar

Thin set mortar is a Portland cement product that is used on floor and wall tiles in many areas. Once dried, it is water resistant, tough and durable, but also brittle. Frequently, large chunks of thin set mortar will come up with the tiles themselves, leaving behind random chunks and an uneven layer. This will need to be chiseled and pried up to avoid damaging the substrate below it. Fit the end of a pry bar beneath larger pieces and exert pressure on the other end to pull up large chunks. Aim a chisel at the base of smaller pieces, holding the chisel at a 45 degree angle to the substrate. Hit the end of the chisel with a hammer to slowly work up the mortar.

Removing Vinyl Tile Adhesive

Vinyl tile adhesive is a flexible adhesive that grows stronger over time. Therefore, vinyl tiles laid down one year ago will come up easier than tiles laid down 20 years ago. Depending on the age of the tiles, the glue may be scraped up quickly, or it may take some patience. Begin by scraping as much up as possible with a putty knife. If it is hard and unyielding, soften it by applying heat. Aim a heat gun at the adhesive, or hold an iron a few inches above it; never place a hot object directly on the glue. Wait a few minutes for it to begin to soften, then scrape up what remains.

Using Solvents

Sometimes, heat and water are not enough to soften very old mastic and vinyl tile adhesive. In these cases, a solvent is needed to break down the glue so it can be scraped up. Purchase a solvent that is made for the type of adhesive being removed. Ventilate the area as much as possible and liberally apply the solvent to the adhesive. Wait for at least one hour for it to begin breaking down the adhesive, and then scrape up the remains. You may find that you need to use a combination of solvents with other techniques to get up all the glue.

Warning

If your tile floor was installed prior to 1984, and the adhesive below it is black or tar-like in appearance, your adhesive may contain asbestos fibers. Asbestos was used frequently in the 1960s and 1970s, as well as in some jobs in the early 1980s to help bond vinyl and linoleum floor tiles. If you suspect your tile floor or floor adhesive of containing asbestos, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Doing so may cause the asbestos fibers to become airborne and may pose a health risk. Contact a professional tile installer or remover for help. Hardware stores sell home lead-test kits.

About the Author

Sarabeth Asaff has worked in and has written about the home improvement industry since 1995. She has written numerous articles on art, interior design and home improvements, specializing in kitchen and bathroom design. A member in good standing with the National Kitchen and Bath Association, Asaff has working knowledge of all areas of home design.

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